Detectives in Harrogate are urging residents to follow some simple crime prevention advice and help keep burglars out this summer.
Despite a recent reduction in burglaries in the area, many of the offences which have been committed could have been avoided by keeping doors and windows locked.
Figures show that there were 26 fewer burglaries in the Harrogate District between January 2014 and June 2014 than in the same period in 2013.
While it is tempting to leave a window open or a door unlocked while enjoying your garden in the hot weather, it is also an invitation to opportunist thieves.
Residents can greatly reduce their chances of being targeted by criminals if they ensure their home is properly secured, even if they are just going outside to mow the lawn.
Detective Inspector Nichola Holden, of Harrogate CID, said: Thieves tend to be opportunistic and if they see an easy chance to get in to your house via an open window or an insecure door, they will take it.
It is important that you make life as difficult as possible for criminals by bearing your home security in mind at all times.
If you are going out into your garden to enjoy the warm weather, please take a few moments to ensure that you have closed all your windows and locked the door. In the short time it takes to secure your home, a thief could have been in and out with your possessions.
It is worth making the effort to be security conscious rather than becoming a victim of crime this summer.
For more information about securing your home against thieves, visit the North Yorkshire Police website www.northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk/homesecurity
If you see anyone acting suspiciously in your area, contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 – select option 1 – and pass information to the Force Control Room.
If you prefer not to give your name, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
